Nearly 370 Men's Sheds receive funding boost

Mon, 04 May, 2026 - 15:18

Eva Osborne

369 Men's Sheds have benefited from funding provided to the Irish Men’s Shed Association (IMSA) in the last few months.

The funding, announced by Ministers Dara Calleary and Jerry Buttimer last year, allowed the IMSA to distribute support to their members, with grants of up to €3,000 available.

The funding is to assist 369 Men’s Sheds with their running and operational costs, such as heating, electricity and insurance bills, the Minister for Rural and Community Development said.

The department said the funding has been paid in full to all 369 sheds in the last number of months.

Minister Calleary said: “I am delighted to have been able to provide this funding to the IMSA to help support Men’s Sheds throughout the country.

"Men’s Sheds provide a vital service to men up and down the country allowing them to come together in a safe, comfortable, and inclusive environment where the can share skills, connect with one another and with their communities.

“I hope this funding will provide a much needed helping hand to Men’s Sheds in terms of their operational and running costs, allowing them to continue in their vital service to the men of Ireland.

“I would also like to acknowledge the supports, representations, and advocacy work the Irish Men’s Sheds Association (IMSA) do on behalf of the network of Men’s Sheds across the Republic of Ireland and their members.”

Minister Buttimer said said Men's Sheds help tackle social isolation, while providing a space to socialise, and build friendships, particularly in rural areas.

“I am lucky to have visited many Men’s Sheds since I took up my position last year and I have seen first-hand the important role they hold in communities up and down the country.

"This funding shows how this Government is emphasising their commitment to Men’s Sheds as outlined in the programme for government.”

Some of the Men's Sheds which received a full €3,000 grant include: